Walcott, the Gunners' top scorer with 11 goals this season, is out of contract at the end of the season and will be free to talk to other clubs over a summer move if a new deal is not agreed by January 1.

The manager has in the past stated his intention to hold on to the player, while also indicating his frustration at a lack of co-operation from Walcott, but has now again admitted that they are no closer to agreeing an extension.

The 63-year-old was speaking ahead of his side's home clash with Newcastle on Saturday, which the north Londoners head into ten points above and eight places higher than the Magpies.

However the Frenchman insisted that Alan Pardew's side, who were only denied a point against the league leaders after a last-minute Javier Hernandez winner on Boxing Day, will provide a stern test and insisted his team must win the game.

"At Old Trafford at times they made Manchester United look vulnerable defensively," he told reporters. "They could have won.

"Last year's game [against Newcastle] was vital and this season's is similar. We can't drop points."